Walker Fernandez accepts possible doping sanction

Spanish 20-kilometre walker Francisco ‘Paquillo’ Fernandez has said he accepts any sanction he may receive after he admitted possessing a banned substance.

The 2004 Olympic silver medallist was banned pending disciplinary procedures after informing sports authorities and police that he had acquired the substance although he said he had not used it.

He told reporters on Friday: “I will get my punishment and I am conscious that you have to do things right and I didn’t.”

Fernandez could be suspended from competition for up to two years although he said he hopes to compete in the 2012 Olympics.

The athlete was investigated by the Civil Guard as part of Operation Grial, which saw 11 people arrested in November.